Headache: A headache involves pain experienced in the head, typically occurring above the eyes or ears, at the back of the head, or in the upper neck region. Similar to chest or back pain, headaches can arise from numerous causes. They are classified into two categories: primary and secondary headaches. Primary headaches occur independently of other medical conditions and include types like migraines, tension headaches, and cluster headaches. Secondary headaches, on the other hand, result from underlying health issues, which can range from minor to severe.Tension headaches are the most prevalent form of primary headache, affecting up to 90% of adults, with women experiencing them more frequently than men. Migraines rank as the second most common primary headache, impacting an estimated 28 million people in the United States, including both children and adults. Prior to puberty, migraines affect boys and girls equally, but post-puberty, they are more prevalent in women. Migraines are often misdiagnosed as tension headaches or other types of headaches.Cluster headaches, although rare, are a significant type of primary headache, predominantly affecting men. Individuals suffering from cluster headaches are generally aged between 28 and 30, though the onset can occur earlier.Secondary headaches can be triggered by a multitude of conditions, from severe ones like brain tumors, strokes, and hemorrhages, to more common, less serious issues such as withdrawal from substances and the cessation of painkillers. Some individuals experience "mixed" headache disorders, where tension or secondary headaches can coincide with migraines.The approach to treating headaches varies based on the type, severity, and other considerations such as the patient's age. A headache is also known as cephalalgia.
